Birdwatchers’ attitudes and preferences that influence their decisions to engage in local, national, and international birdwatching trips

Birdwatching tourism has significant economic potential and is a growing form of ecotourism. Birdwatchers throughout the United States have diverse attitudes and motivations, and here we sought to understand how, and why, birdwatchers select birdwatching destinations at local, in-country, and international scales. A questionnaire survey (n=427 participants) revealed that 98% participate in local birdwatching trips, 96% participate in in-country trips, and 78% participate in international trips. Among those who travel internationally, opportunities to see rare birds and well-planned itineraries were the most important factors. Moreover, hardcore birdwatchers prioritized rare species and increasing their life list, while casual birdwatchers showed interest in non-birdwatching activities and travel infrastructure. Our analysis revealed that income significantly determines the number of countries visited, with lower-income birdwatchers visiting fewer countries. The top international destinations for birdwatchers include Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Mexico. A factor analysis illustrated distinct birdwatchers’ clusters, with some preferring tour guides and itineraries, and others preferring the presence of high bird diversity and rare birds or travel logistics. Our analysis highlights the differential and complex attitudes and preferences of U.S.-based birdwatchers and we discuss how these differences can influence the growing field of avitourism.